Tiger Woods draws out of Arnold Palmer Invitational due to back spasms

Woods draws out of Arnold Palmer

ORLANDO, FL (The Spread) - Instead of defending his title, Tiger Woods has decided to back out of the Arnold Palmer Invitational this week.

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According to his official website, Woods elected to bow out of this week's PGA tournament while citing back spasms. Woods has won eight APIs, including the last two tournaments. He tried to adjust his schedule but his back problems remain an ongoing issue.

"I personally called Arnold today to tell him that, sadly, I won't be able to play in his tournament this year," Woods stated on his website. "I would like to express my regrets to the Orlando fans, the volunteers, the tournament staff and the sponsors for having to miss the event. Unfortunately, my back spasms and the pain haven't subsided. It's too early to know about the Masters, and I will continue to be evaluated and work closely with my doctors. I feel badly that I won't be able to play in this great tournament this week."

At the start of the week, Woods opened as a 13/2 favorite to win the Arnold Palmer Invitational according to oddsmakers from online sports book BetDSI. Bubba Watson and Justin Rose were both 14/1, respectively, while Adam Scott was 16/1 and both Graeme McDowell and Zach Johnson were both listed at 22/1, respectively.

Woods is still a 3/2 favorite to win a Major in 2014 while Rory McIlroy is 5/2 and Adam Scott is 7/2. Phil Mickelson, meanwhile, is 4/1 to win a Major this yar while Henrik Stenson is 9/2 and Justin Rose is 6/1.

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